What Are Plaque Control Tablets?

Maybe you are not sure what plaque control color tablets are used for and how to use them. In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about these substances that stain the biofilm on your teeth.

Bacterial plaque, also called biofilm, is a thin, translucent, sticky film formed by bacteria and sugars that accumulate and adhere to tooth surfaces. When formed, it may not be visible to the naked eye.

If not removed properly by brushing, it accumulates, turns yellowish and gives the area a rough structure. It mostly settles at the bottom of the teeth and around orthodontic appliances, which are two areas that are difficult to access during dental hygiene routines.

The presence and accumulation of plaque can cause several problems in your mouth, such as cavities, gingivitis and bad breath. That is why it is so important to get rid of it completely. This is where plaque control color tablets come into play. They can be a great help when it comes to dental hygiene.

What are plaque control color tablets?

As already mentioned, when plaque forms on your teeth, it is transparent. This makes it difficult to see and can make the tooth seem clean. Plaque control color tablets are substances that stain the biofilm to make it visible. This way it is easier to remove.

Knowing where the plaque is makes it possible to know which areas of your mouth need more attention, thus improving your hygiene techniques. These remedies are very useful in preventive routines and as motivation for the importance of oral care.

Characteristics of plaque control color tablets

Plaque control color tablets contain special dyes that color the biofilm red, pink or purple to make it visible. They are made with various substances such as erythrosine, fuchsin, sodium fluorescein, phloxin or malachite green.

They come in different presentations, which we will explain below. The main characteristics of effective plaque control color tablets are:

• Easy to use.
• Does not irritate the mouth.
• Biocompatible and water soluble.
• Avoid sticking gums and does not contain allergens.
• Pleasant taste.
• Color contrast: The intensity of the color should vary to distinguish between new and old plaque.
• The color lasts long enough.
• Easy to remove after use.

Types of plaque control color tablets

As already mentioned, there are different types of plaque control on the market. This means that you can choose the most appropriate solution for your particular needs. Here we tell you about the most common.

Chewable tablets

These are tablets you chew until they dissolve completely. When the saliva that your mouth has produced is circulating, rinse three or four times with water. Then look at your teeth.

They make the plaque red. In addition, there are the well-known two-color tablets, which stain the oldest plaque blue and the newest red.

Today, they are not so prevalent because the color remains on the teeth for a long time. In addition, it is difficult to stain the entire oral cavity. Their effectiveness depends on the patient’s ability to use them.

Gel

This type of plaque control is for professional use. Dentists use it in their clinics and apply it with microbrushes or sponges.

It is very helpful in determining a patient’s risk of cavities. The gel stains the different types of plaque in three different shades:

• New : Red-pink.
• Mature or old: Blue.
• Acid: Light blue.

Liquid

This is a very easy to use home method. Put two or three drops of the product in your mouth, gargle your saliva for a minute and then rinse to remove excess color.

It is available in two types:

• Solid color: Stains all plaque in a single color.
• Two colors: It colors mature plaque blue and newer plaque red.

In addition to staining your teeth, it colors your tongue and gums, so it’s best to use it before going to bed. Dentists also use a photosensitive fluid in their clinics.

The latter is different in that it can only be seen when illuminated by a light-curing device. The advantage is that no remains are visible at the end of the visit.

Mouthwash

These are one of the most popular plaque control products for home use because they are very convenient and easy to use. Just rinse with two teaspoons at home before brushing your teeth, like a mouthwash.

Rinse for 30 seconds, and after spitting it out, you will see the stained plaque.

How to use plaque control color tablets

We have already talked about how to use each of the different forms of plaque control. With all of them , the idea is to mix the dye with your saliva so that it is distributed around all tooth surfaces.

The time you need to keep it in your mouth will be indicated on the package, and in some cases you will need to rinse with water several times to remove residue. Then you will be able to see the colored tooth surfaces, which show you which areas you need to be a little more aware of reaching with your brushing.

You should brush thoroughly until all the colored areas are gone. When you are done, rinse again several times to remove all the dye. It is best to use it in the evening before going to bed because your tongue and gums can also become stained.

When should you use them?

We have already talked about the purpose of plaque control: So you can see the film of bacteria that accumulates on tooth surfaces and is invisible to the naked eye. This makes it easier to clean your teeth as you can see which areas need to be cleaned.

They can be used before brushing to show which areas to concentrate on. Plaque control chewable tablets guide your technique so that you brush thoroughly and correctly.

Alternatively, you can use them after brushing, as you would normally do with mouthwash. This allows you to evaluate the effectiveness of your brushing and see which areas you need to pay more attention to.

In addition, plaque control chewable tablets are a product that motivates people to pay more attention when brushing. Especially for kids who may not understand the importance of brushing something that looks clean. They also add a little fun and play to dental hygiene.

Both children and adults can use them, and they work on surfaces of natural teeth and on dentures, orthodontic appliances and implants. They are very useful for orthodontic patients to visualize plaque that accumulates around braces. It is often difficult to get the brush into all the small spaces between and behind them.

A great addition to your dental hygiene routine

Now you know what plaque control color tablets are all about. And even if you do not have to use them every day, visualizing the places where bacteria accumulate will allow you to improve your oral hygiene.

Your dentist can advise you on how to use them and at what times. They are easy to find at pharmacies and you can choose the type you prefer.

It is worth thinking about this help for proper dental hygiene. You already know that good oral hygiene prevents many diseases and gives you a radiant smile.